BETTY62

I am making a quilt named "My Rose of Sharon" with a new twist and a supersized update to the traditional "Rose of Sharon" quilt. I regret I am unable to provide a picture of it because my scanner seems to be on the blink. A picture of the quilt appears on the 2010 cover of the Quilter's World magazine. The quilt has 1 rather large flower in the center of the top with 8 smaller flowers surrounding it. There are stems connecting the large flower to the small flowers. The pattern directions to make the stems are as follows:

"Using a 1/2" bias maker prepare 300" of green mottled bias for stems referring to the manufacture's instruction."

While I know how to make bias strips, I do not own a bias maker and do not want to purchase one to use for this project as it's unlikely I would ever use it again. So, my question is, if I cut my bias strips 1 inch wide and turn the raw edges under 1/4 inch on each side ending up with a finished 1/2 inch strip will this the same size strip that is produced by the bias strip maker? In my mind it should be but being I have never seen a bias strip maker work and I am not good at math, I would appreciate assistance with this little project.

Thanks in advance for reading my post and for any help you can provide.

Jennifer23

Yes, that would work.

For 300" of bias tape I would be tempted to buy the tool... the $5-6 it would cost would really speed up the job, and reduce frustration. If you're comfortable folding it yourself, though, you have the measurements right. Good luck!

Jane Quilter

buy the tool. The edges of the stems will be smooth and even.

BETTY62

Thanks Jennifer and Jane, I did not realize the bias makers were so cheap. I was under the impression they were in the $30 range. Hopefully I will be an owner of one before the sun sets tomorrow evening.

PaperPrincess

The bias tool you need is under $10. It's not the mechanical one, it's a metal funnel like thing that you use with your regular iron. Big box stores carry them.

Prism99

Clover brand makes the best bias tape maker. There are YouTube videos that show how to use it. I like to starch the fabric before cutting the strips; it makes the folds super crisp and stable. Be sure to follow the directions that come with the tape maker for the best width to cut your strips.

ckcowl

I picked up bias binding makers in a package of (4) sizes, 1/8", 1/4", 1/2" & 3/4" for under $10 at Joanne's. Nancy's notions also carry them if you prefer shopping on line. They are good tools to have on hand- might only use once in awhile,but when you need them you have them. Much easier than folding by hand!